Name: Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 lb chicken breast; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re craving something both comforting and nourishing, this Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken breast simmered gently with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and zucchini, all marrying beautifully in a light, fragrant broth. This classic soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a wholesome pick-me-up. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe comes together easily with simple, accessible ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl on the right contains a clear brown broth with tiny bubbles on the surface. To the left of it, a medium clear bowl holds shredded white chicken pieces. Above that, a white bowl is filled with sliced bright orange carrots. Below the carrots, another white bowl is packed with diced yellow potatoes. Next to the potatoes, a smaller white bowl contains chopped green celery. At the bottom right, two tiny white bowls hold white salt crystals and ground black pepper, respectively. The overall look is neat with fresh, colorful ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the foundation of any fantastic soup, and this Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is no exception. Each component brings something special to the pot — from the sweetness of carrots to the aromatic qualities of fresh onion and celery — creating layers of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.

1 tbsp olive oil: Use extra virgin for a richer taste and a healthy fat base to sauté your veggies.
1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth when sautéed.
2 carrots, sliced: For a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances sweetness.
1 zucchini, diced: A tender vegetable that absorbs the broth’s flavor beautifully.
1 lb chicken breast: The tender protein star that will make this soup hearty and satisfying.
8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base that ties everything together—use low sodium for better control of saltiness.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential finishing touches to highlight all the ingredients.

How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. As soon as it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Let these cook until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base that will infuse your broth with comforting aromas and sweetness.

Step 2: Add Zucchini and Italian Seasoning

Once the base veggies are tender, stir in the diced zucchini along with the Italian seasoning. This herb blend brings a lovely Mediterranean flair and an earthy note that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly. Cook for another couple of minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 3: Introduce the Chicken and Broth

Next, nestle the whole chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. The broth should cover the chicken and veggies completely. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This slow simmer lets the chicken cook gently while infusing the broth with its natural juices.

Step 4: Simmer and Shred the Chicken

Let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup, stirring it in so every spoonful gets a perfect bite of chicken.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and pepper as needed. This final adjustment is key to balancing the flavors and making the broth sing. Now it’s ready to serve — comforting, wholesome, and utterly satisfying.

How to Serve Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To give your Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe that extra pizzazz, consider adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully, and a dash of grated Parmesan can add a savory kick if you’re not avoiding dairy.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a light green salad to keep the meal balanced. For something a bit heartier, try serving it alongside garlic-infused roasted potatoes or warm whole-grain rolls to soak up every last drop of the broth.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or make this recipe extra special? Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a cozy presentation that’s both functional and charming. Alternatively, topping each bowl with a swirl of pesto or a dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and visual appeal without overshadowing the natural soup flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s an ideal make-ahead meal that keeps its flavor and texture, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Freezing

This soup freezes spectacularly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When properly frozen, it will keep its quality for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic option for batch cooking and meal prep.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method preserves the texture of the chicken and vegetables. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more richness and a slightly deeper flavor to the soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to become tender.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free chicken broth. Always double-check labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in green beans, peas, or even corn to your soup. Just add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking so they stay crisp and vibrant.

How thick or thin is this soup?

This recipe yields a light, broth-based soup that’s not creamy but still very satisfying. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can add cooked rice, noodles, or even puree a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?

Using two forks is the classic method: hold the chicken steady with one fork and pull it apart with the other. Alternatively, you can use a hand mixer on low speed right in the pot for quick shredding.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is a treasured classic for a reason: it’s simple to make, deeply comforting, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients that nurture the body and soul. Whether you’re fighting off a chill or just craving something cozy, this soup is ready to become a staple in your kitchen rotation. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite homemade soup for any season.